J&K snowfall forecast: Higher reaches to see snow, plains to get rain till Oct 15
Synopsis
A fresh Western Disturbance is pushing snow onto J&K's higher reaches — from Zojila Pass to Gulmarg — through 15 October, with rain forecast in the plains. Trekkers have been told to stay off mountain trails, mountain passes flagged as unsafe, and apple growers warned to secure harvested crops before the wet spell hits.
Key Takeaways
A Western Disturbance activated over Jammu and Kashmir from 13 October , bringing snow to higher reaches and rain to plains until 15 October .
Higher reaches including Zojila Pass , Gulmarg , Sadhna Top , Sinthan Top , and Gurez are forecast to receive light snowfall .
Trekkers advised to avoid high-altitude routes; Sadhna Top , Zojila Pass , Sinthan Pass , and Razdan Pass flagged as potentially unsafe.
Farmers and apple growers urged to ensure safe storage of harvested produce during the 13–15 October window.
Minimum temperatures: 11.2°C in Srinagar , 6.8°C in Pahalgam , 5.4°C in Gulmarg ; 18°C in Jammu .
Dry weather forecast to return from 17 October and continue through 24 October .
The Jammu and Kashmir Meteorological Department on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, issued a weather advisory forecasting light snowfall across higher reaches of the Union Territory and rain in the plains, with conditions expected to remain inclement until 15 October. Trekkers and tourists have been urged to exercise caution during this period.
Western Disturbance to Drive Inclement Weather
A fresh Western Disturbance (WD) is set to become active over Jammu and Kashmir from Tuesday afternoon, the MeT Department said. Under its influence, generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rain — and light snow over higher reaches — along with thunder or gusty winds are likely at many places between 13 and 15 October.
Higher reaches including Zojila Pass, Pir Ki Gali, Sadhna Top, Gulmarg, Razdan Top, Sinthan Top, and Gurez are among the areas forecast to receive snowfall, according to officials.
Advisory for Trekkers, Tourists and Mountain Pass Travellers
Trekkers have been advised to avoid venturing into higher reaches until 15 October. Mountain passes including Sadhna Top, Zojila Pass, Sinthan Pass, and Razdan Pass could be unsafe for travel during this window, officials warned. Travellers have been asked to contact traffic authorities for updated road conditions before proceeding to these passes.
Farmers and Apple Growers on Alert
The MeT advisory specifically flagged risks for the agricultural community. Farmers and apple growers have been advised to ensure safe storage of harvested apples, paddy, and other crops during the 13–15 October period, as wet and gusty conditions could damage produce left in the open. The advisory comes at a critical post-harvest phase for the Valley's apple industry, which is one of the most economically significant in India.
Current Temperatures Across J&K
Cold mornings and evenings have already set in across the Kashmir Valley, with residents increasingly seen in warm attire including the traditional Kashmiri tweed overgarment known as the 'Phiren'. The minimum temperature was recorded at 11.2°C in Srinagar, 6.8°C in Pahalgam, and 5.4°C in Gulmarg. In the Jammu division, temperatures stood at 18°C in Jammu, 17.5°C in Katra, 12.6°C in Batote, 10°C in Banihal, and 8.4°C in Bhaderwah.
What to Expect After October 15
The MeT Department indicated that conditions would begin to ease after the current spell. 16 October is expected to see generally dry weather with only a brief spell of light rain at isolated places. From 17 to 24 October, generally dry weather is forecast across the region — offering a window of stable conditions for travel and outdoor activity.
Point of View
And even a brief unseasonal wet spell can cause significant post-harvest losses if growers are caught unprepared. The MeT Department's explicit call-out to farmers is a sign that authorities are aware of this vulnerability. What the bulletin does not address is coordination with district administration on road clearance and pass management, which historically lags behind weather forecasts and leaves stranded trekkers and pilgrims to fend for themselves.
NationPress
13 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Which areas in J&K are expected to receive snowfall?
Higher reaches including Zojila Pass, Pir Ki Gali, Sadhna Top, Gulmarg, Razdan Top, Sinthan Top, and Gurez are forecast to receive light snowfall from 13 October afternoon. The snowfall is expected to continue until 15 October under the influence of a Western Disturbance.
Is it safe to trek in Jammu and Kashmir between 13 and 15 October?
No, trekkers have been advised to avoid trekking in higher reaches of J&K until 15 October. Mountain passes including Zojila Pass, Sadhna Top, Sinthan Pass, and Razdan Pass have been flagged as potentially unsafe for travel. Travellers are urged to contact traffic authorities before proceeding.
When will the weather improve in Jammu and Kashmir?
The inclement weather is expected to ease after 15 October. Generally dry conditions with only a brief isolated rain spell are forecast for 16 October, followed by dry weather from 17 to 24 October, according to the MeT Department.
Why have farmers and apple growers been put on alert?
The Meteorological Department has advised farmers and apple growers to ensure safe storage of harvested apples, paddy, and other crops during the 13–15 October period. Rain and gusty winds during this window could damage produce that has not been stored or covered.
What are the current temperatures in Srinagar and other parts of J&K?
As of 13 October, the minimum temperature in Srinagar is 11.2°C, 6.8°C in Pahalgam, and 5.4°C in Gulmarg. In the Jammu division, Jammu recorded 18°C, Katra 17.5°C, Batote 12.6°C, Banihal 10°C, and Bhaderwah 8.4°C.
